MELISSA WALLER
Overland Park
Summary
Passionate and experienced Elementary Teacher with a proven track record of enhancing student engagement and performance in both rural and urban settings. Skilled in creating dynamic and inclusive classroom environments that cater to diverse educational styles. Adaptable and student-oriented, consistently fostering an atmosphere that promotes optimum performance and academic advancement.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
4th Grade Teacher
Blue Valley School District
08.2024 - Current
- Collaborated with fellow teachers to design interdisciplinary lesson plans, reinforcing key concepts across subjects.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, establishing clear expectations and consequences while fostering a respectful learning environment.
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, addressing the unique needs of each student in the classroom.
- Developed students'' critical thinking skills through engaging group projects and individual assignments.
- Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and adjusting instructional approaches as needed.
- Contributed to the development of annual curriculum maps, ensuring alignment with state standards and grade-level objectives.
- Participated in professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and innovative teaching techniques.
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
- Designed and presented lesson plans in one or more academic subjects using variety of teaching techniques to appeal to various learning styles within assigned grade level.
Kindergarten Teacher
Blue Valley School District
09.2023 - 05.2024
- Created a positive, safe, and stimulating classroom environment for young children
- Taught kindergarten students in a variety of subjects, including math, science, language arts, and social studies
- Promoted an inclusive learning environment that respected diversity among students
4th Grade teacher
St. Augustin Catholic School
08.2019 - 05.2023
- Collaborated with other teachers, administrators, and parents to ensure a safe learning environment
- Encouraged positive behavior and provided constructive feedback to students
- Organized field trips related to curriculum topics in order to provide real world applications of concepts learned in class
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, establishing clear expectations and consequences while fostering a respectful learning environment.
- Cultivated a supportive learning environment where every student felt valued and respected
Education
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Elementary Education
Iowa State University
Ames, IA12.1989
Skills
- Core Curriculum Knowledge
- Curriculum Development
- Interactive Learning Environment
- Effective Classroom Management
- Foundational Education Expertise
- Effective Behavior Management
- Interpersonal Communication
- Cross-Department Collaboration
- Effective Conflict Resolution
- Collaborative learning
- Assessment strategies
- Emotional Intelligence Development
- Team collaboration
Accomplishments
- Commended for exceptional teaching and support to students.
- Taught diverse groups of students over 14 years.
- Reached out to community to gather donations of materials and supplies for needy students.
- Improved test scores by 80% by reworking approach.
- Collaborated with team of 5 in the development of Kansas History Project.
Certification
- State of Kansas Teaching License
- State of Iowa Teaching License
Timeline
4th Grade Teacher
Blue Valley School District
08.2024 - Current
Kindergarten Teacher
Blue Valley School District
09.2023 - 05.2024
4th Grade teacher
St. Augustin Catholic School
08.2019 - 05.2023
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Elementary Education
Iowa State University